Meet the new darling of South End — a gastro-cantina and mezcalería offering Mexican & Latin-inspired dining, handcrafted cocktails and one of the Carolinas’ largest agave spirits collections.

The Story of Mi Cariño is more than a restaurant; it’s an invitation to savor life with intention. Mi Cariño translates to “my darling” in Spanish, a reflection of the intimacy and affection poured into every detail of the experience. Inspired by the flavors of Mexico and the richness of Latin culture, with a nod to Los Angeles’ culinary creativity — what we call Left Coast Latino — Mi Cariño blends tradition and modernity into something soulful, cinematic and unforgettable.

Led by Executive Chef Héctor González-Mora, the menu reimagines Latin cuisine with dishes like ceviches, aguachiles, pork belly pibil and inventive takes on tacos. Think bold flavors that feel both refined and familiar. At the bar, Beverage Director Henry Schmulling curates more than 400 agave spirits, including rare mezcals, tequilas, raicillas and bacanoras sourced from family-run distilleries across Mexico, making it one of the most distinctive collections in the Carolinas.

Rooted in Latin spirit and crafted with soul, Mi Cariño isn’t just another restaurant. It’s South End’s new darling.

THE STORYTELLERS

HECTOR GONZÁLEZ-MORA

executive Chef

Hector González-Mora, a Johnson & Wales alum, is the chef and co-creator behind Charlotte favorites Chilito, El Toro Bruto and Noche Bruta. His culinary journey also includes roles at The Asbury, The Porter’s House, and the former littleSpoon and Comida, as well as meaningful work at nonprofit Project 658, where he used food as a vehicle for community building and empowerment among immigrant families. Raised in L.A. and Charlotte and rooted in his Mexican heritage, Hector crafts soulful, ingredient-driven interpretations of Latin cuisine. As Executive Chef of The Story of Mi Cariño in South End, he channels bold flavors and refined technique into dishes that tell a story and stir the soul.

MARC GONZALES

Co-general manager

Mark Gonzales is a seasoned hospitality leader with over 20 years of experience, a Level II Sommelier certification, and a track record that includes training under a Michelin-starred chef and earning Wine Spectator Awards of Excellence. He’s opened four restaurants and brings a guest-first mindset rooted in warmth, gratitude, and meticulous attention to detail. Mark is also a Certified Mezcal Specialist through the Agave Spirits Institute and is studying to become a Certified Mezcal Sommelier. A West Coast native and proud Charlotte resident, Mark is also a passionate music lover whose playlists reflect his eclectic taste and storytelling spirit. Outside of the restaurant, he’s applying his same drive for excellence to training for his first Ironman 70.3 triathlon.

Vince Ponzio

Co-general manager

Vince Ponzio is a hospitality veteran with more than 25 years of experience leading teams across casual, upscale and fine dining concepts. A Charlotte resident for more than 15 years, Vince brings a people-first approach to his role at The Story of Mi Cariño, where he focuses on creating a welcoming, thoughtful guest experience while supporting and empowering the team behind the scenes. Drawn to Mi Cariño’s commitment to doing things with intention and heart, Vince believes great hospitality starts with understanding people, including both guests and staff, and building shared goals that elevate the experience for everyone.

HENRY SCHMULLING

beverage director

Charlotte native Henry Schmulling brings two decades of experience and a creative edge to his role as Beverage Director for B-Side Group. He’s the mind behind the beverage program at all B-Side concepts and has helped shape standout beverage menus across the city as a consultant. Formerly Beverage Director at Kimpton Tryon Park Hotel, his work at Merchant & Trade and Angeline’s earned back-to-back Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards nominations—the first in North Carolina to do so. A member of the United States Bartenders’ Guild (USBG), Henry is known for his inventive style, leadership, and deep roots in the local craft cocktail scene.